The Observer. (La Grande, Or.) 1968-current, November 21, 2019, Image 17

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a $3.3 million commercial loan from Banner Bank. Due to positive bond
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our LHS Track, building new tennis courts, resurfacing asphalt parking
areas, adding modular classrooms to the Middle school, renovating the
culinary arts classroom, and LHS concessions stand, etc. We now have two
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window replacement work taking place in our school district.
Our school district has also been able to return to setting aside adequate
funds for curriculum adoption cycles as we are now purchasing Social
Studies curriculum for next school year. We have expanded our support
of curriculum and professional developments by partnering with Eastern
Oregon University to have STEM and Technology based educational
experience through an instructional coach. We are ensuring our students
receive a high quality 21st century learning experience. We are also a
leading organization in much of the work we are focused on as it relates
to social emotional learning and trauma informed practices as well as
wellness and mindfulness programing for staff and students. This school
year we were able to better address caseload ratios for special education
teachers in our elementary schools and high school as well as adding
Physical education instruction for our 3 elementary schools. This creates
better learning environments for students and working conditions for staff
members.
We have also focus on future investments into nursing, middle school CTE,
additional counseling services, behavior support specialists, early learning
and increased instructional time are investments into our education
programs that I look forward to improving. We also need to take a careful
look at our strategic plan and ensure we make investments to support and
improve the priorities we listed. Things are looking up with state funding
and our ability to improve on our programs and services. I look forward to
a better future for all of our students, staff, and community.
Sincerely,
George Mendoza
La Grande SD Superintendent